Current trends of Clinicomycological Profile of Dermatophytosis in Central India

Background: Dermatophytosis is one of the most common cutaneous fungal infections of public health importance. Its prevalence differs from place to place and is influenced by environmental conditions, personal hygiene and habits. Aim: The present study was undertaken to assess the clinical and mycological profile of dermatophytic infection and identify the species of fungi using standard techniques. Materials and methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in 100 clinically diagnosed patients of dermatophytosis attending the dermatology outpatient department of our hospital. Proforma containing structured questionnaire was also filled. Skin scrapings, nail scrapes or nail clippings and infected hair stubs were collected. All specimens were screened for dermatophytes by direct microscopy using KOH DMSO preparation and confirmed by fungal culture. Results: Tinea unguium (52.0%) was predominant clinical condition. Males were affected more (79.0%) than females. Dermatophytosis was predominantly found in more than 60 years (32.0%) and 31-45 years (24.0%). Fungi were demonstrated in 55.0% cases by KOH mount and 46.0% cases were positive by culture. 16.0% cases were KOH negative and culture positive. Trichophyton rubrum (41.0%) was the predominant species. Conclusions: Males with age group above 60 years were most commonly affected in our area. Predominant clinical type was tinea unguium probably because most of them were farmers and labourers with poor hygiene. Trichophyton rubrum was the commonest dermatophyte isolated. KOH negative and culture positive cases indicate that culture is a gold standard for isolation and identification of dermatophytes.